Accurately diagnosing diabetes in a dog should be done by a veterinarian who will gather information concerning the dog’s clinical signs and will check urinalysis and blood work and perform a physical examination. If diabetes is detected in your pet the following are some forms of treatment that can be tailored to fit the needs of the dog thought their life.
- There are dogs that can become seriously ill when they first develop diabetes and may need intensive care in a hospital in order to regulate blood sugar levels.
- When a dog is first diagnosed with diabetes and they seem more stable, they may respond well to a high-fiber diet or oral medication which can help bring glucose blood levels to normal.
- Insulin injections, in most dogs, are needed for correct the regulation of glucose levels in blood.
- It is recommended to have a dog sprayed because blood sugar levels can be affected by female sex hormones.
Preventing Diabetes in Dogs
The type of diabetes that develops in dogs that are less that a year old is inherited but in older dogs, regular exercise and a proper diet may work well in aiding in the prevention of onset diabetes. Obesity in dogs can contribute to the dog’s ability to respond to insulin normally, in addition to its other harmful health effects.
Taking Care of a Diabetic Dog at Home
A dog should receive their insulin during the time a meal is given and the medication should be given the same time each day. With this method increased nutrients in the blood correspond with insulin at peak levels, and will reduce the opportunity that the dog’s blood sugar levels will elevate too high of drop too low.